What is the best car to replace a 2012 Hyundai Sonata?

We have a 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T that my wife uses to go to work every day in traffic. In this situation, it is not economical. My spouse would like to change the Sonata for a more economical car and easier to drive in traffic. She offered me a Fiat 500, but I prefer the Abarth / 500 Turbo or a Kia Rio5 2012 to 2014. Is it reliable or I have to avoid these models and convince her to keep the Sonata as it is paid?

– Stéphane

FORGET the Fiat 500 whatever they are. The only existing Fiat worthy of interest is the 124 and it is essentially an Italian Mazda! The 500, in all its forms, is a disaster of reliability all along the line. Think of something that can break on a car and the 500 will have it. Whether it is the engine, the transmission, the accessories, the electronics, the tightness of the vehicle, everything ends up becoming a problem.

Seriously, it is often said that there is no longer a bad product on the market, well, the 500 is the exception to the rule. Do you also say: the more powerful the 500, the more it causes problems. In the case of the Abarth, the torque effect is so pronounced that it becomes difficult to drive. In winter, during my last test, despite good tires and the traction control system in action,

On the other side of the automotive reliability spectrum is your second choice, the Kia Rio5. Since 2012, this car has demonstrated exceptional reliability. Unlike the 500, there is no choice of engine, but at least it will not cause you a problem.

In addition, the basic equipment of the Rio is much more complete than that of the Fiat. The comfort is superior and the interior space is more functional. She\’s less sexy than the 500, that\’s right. By cons, a week after your purchase, you will not be plagued against your new car because of its problems! I recommend without reservation the Rio.

If your spouse likes a little more distinctive vehicles, she can also look for a Volkswagen Beetle . It represents a middle ground between the 500 and Rio although it is a little bigger.

The Beetle also offers a nice frugality at the pump while remaining pleasant to drive. With her multiple versions and special editions, she will be able to find a car that will reflect her personality.